a tortuous channel

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a tortuous channel" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a channel that is winding, twisting, or complicated in its path, often in a geographical or metaphorical context. Example: "The river formed a tortuous channel through the dense forest, making navigation difficult for the boats."

✓ Grammatically correct

Encyclopedias

Science

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

1 human-written examples

Flowing in a tortuous channel generally west and southwest past Elko, Winnemucca, and Lovelock, the Humboldt, after a course of about 300 miles (480 km), enters Humboldt Lake (also called Humboldt Sink), an intermittently dry lake bed with no outlet, near Humboldt Range.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

59 human-written examples

The only approach to the port was through a narrow, tortuous channel, blocked by a key harbour defense site, Wŏlmi Island, and the port facilities of Inch'ŏn were inadequate for supporting a major operation.

Britannica

This pathologic communication may be either a fistula, a simple communication between a single artery and a dilated vein, or a more complex communication, a nidus of tortuous channels between one or more arteries/arterioles and one or more draining veins.

Insights into Imaging

The tortuous channel below Stockton has been straightened by artificial cuts, and large areas along the estuary shore have been reclaimed by dumping slag.

Encyclopedia Britannica

The dysplastic connection may be between a single arterial feeder and a draining vein that is usually enlarged, and this is the case of the arteriovenous fistulas or AVFs, or between a conglomerate of arterial branches and tortuous channels forming a nidus and one or more draining veins.

Insights into Imaging

This implies that small molecules tend to be trapped inside the nano-pores within the EVAL particles whereas large molecules travel through the tortuous channels outside the particles during a filtration operation.

Polymer

The model is based on gas flow through the tortuous channels between the packing elements.

Chemical Engineering Science

When, presently, through the tortuous channels of picture-dealing, it came into Duveen's possession, the cherubs, by some miraculous Duveen therapy, were restored to sexual normality.

The New Yorker

Lake Lucerne is composed of four main basins (with two side basins), which represent four glaciated valleys, topographically distinct and connected only by narrow and tortuous channels.

Encyclopedia Britannica

The effect of perfusion (0.5 mL min−1, Re∗ = 27.78 and shear stress = 0.16 dyn cm−2) through the tortuous channels on construct remodeling and endothelium quiescence was studied.

Biomaterials

"But we built all these tortuous channels in what was the equivalent of the wall so somebody could get through, but they get through very slowly, like driving through London in rush hour".

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Consider the connotations of "tortuous" - it often implies difficulty or something being unnecessarily complicated, be sure that aligns with your intended meaning.

Common error

Avoid using "tortuous" when "winding", "curved", or "meandering" would suffice. "Tortuous" suggests a more extreme level of twisting and complexity.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a tortuous channel" functions as a noun phrase, typically serving as a subject, object, or complement in a sentence. Ludwig's examples demonstrate its usage in describing complex or winding paths, both literally and metaphorically.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

Science

33%

News & Media

33%

Encyclopedias

33%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a tortuous channel" is a noun phrase used to describe complex, winding paths or processes. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness. While not highly frequent, it finds use in diverse contexts like encyclopedias, scientific literature, and news articles. When writing, remember that "tortuous" implies a higher degree of complexity than simpler alternatives like "winding" or "curved". Using this phrase effectively adds depth and nuance to descriptions of intricate or difficult-to-navigate subjects.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a winding passage

Focuses on the curved or spiral nature of the passage.

a convoluted path

Highlights the complicated and intricate nature of the path.

a meandering route

Emphasizes the indirect and wandering nature of the route.

a twisting course

Stresses the turning and bending nature of the course.

an intricate waterway

Highlights the complex and detailed nature of the waterway.

a labyrinthine network

Suggests a complex and confusing system, like a labyrinth.

a serpentine path

Implies a winding and twisting path, resembling a snake.

a circuitous route

Highlights the indirect and roundabout nature of the route.

a complicated course

Focuses on the difficult and involved nature of the course.

a labyrinth path

Focuses on the confusing and complex nature of the path.

FAQs

How can I use "a tortuous channel" in a sentence?

You can use "a tortuous channel" to describe a river's path, a process, or even a line of reasoning that is complicated and winding. For example, "The investigation followed "a tortuous channel" through various departments."

What are some alternatives to "a tortuous channel"?

Alternatives include "a winding passage", "a convoluted path", or "a meandering route", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is "tortuous" the same as "torturous"?

"Tortuous" describes something winding or complicated, while "torturous" describes something causing pain or suffering. They are not interchangeable.

What does it mean when a process is described as "a tortuous channel"?

It suggests the process is complex, difficult to follow, and involves many twists and turns, making it potentially frustrating or time-consuming.